What is a school without its students? I found myself pondering this question a great deal last year and the answer, of course, is that it is simply a collection of buildings.
The Christian Bible never refers to ‘church’ as a building. Rather, it speaks very clearly to ‘church’ as a people involved in a collective mission as part of ‘God’s household’ (Ephesians 2:19). So, too, is a school only realised when there is a community of people engaged in the collective mission of teaching and learning.
At our Commencement Service last week both the Chaplain, Rev. Peter Waterhouse, and Principal, Mr Bill Sweeney, spoke to the idea of standing firm together as one community. It was a wonderful message for our students to hear as the new year begins. This year, we have renewed hope that much will return to normal. Camps, excursions, incursions, sporting activities and other ventures are all being planned to benefit our students. As I walk around the grounds, there is a profound sense of energy and vitality as our students and staff enjoy being back together onsite, as one learning community. Teaching and learning are occurring in all of our classrooms, in our arts spaces, science and technology spaces, sports fields and play areas.
It is true that buildings can and do help facilitate learning. The STEM Centre and Sports Centre, both currently under construction, will provide students with further opportunities and experiences to which have not before had access within the school grounds. These are exciting projects that will undoubtedly maximise both the teaching and learning experiences for all, not least because they enable students to work and study together.
Last year clearly taught us that schooling – the act of teaching and learning – can occur even when we are not physically together. Nevertheless, how nourishing it is to gather again once more as a community, each playing our part as we engage in the rich and wondrous process of education.
My wish is for all in our community, our staff, students and families, to have a truly rewarding year in 2021.